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NBA and Abu Dhabi Extend $300M Partnership for Growth

1/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism extended a nine-year partnership to host preseason games in the Middle East.
The deal is expected to exceed $300 million.
The collaboration aims to grow UAE basketball, where participation rose 60% and fanbase grew 25% since 2022.
The NBA Global Academy in Abu Dhabi will be a hub for elite high-school athletes and include girls' programs.

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Story summary

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism extended a nine-year partnership to host preseason games in the Middle East.
The deal is expected to exceed $300 million.
The collaboration aims to grow UAE basketball, where participation rose 60% and fanbase grew 25% since 2022.
The NBA Global Academy in Abu Dhabi will be a hub for elite high-school athletes and include girls' programs.